Visiting

Pakistani culture places a lot of emphasis on hospitality. Being welcomed to a Pakistani's home despite having little to no prior acquaintance is not unusual. Arrive on time while visiting a military family's home. However, Pakistanis in general do not adhere to a fixed sense of time. It depends on the context of the event if it is okay to arrive at a venue far later than the scheduled start time. It is not customary to offer to bring a meal to new acquaintances. Since hosts take pride in cooking everything themselves, a question like that can surprise them.

It is nice to bring a small present to show your appreciation for the invitation, such as flowers, chocolate, or sweets. At the door, make the offer to take off your shoes. The host will decide whether the men or women may serve themselves first. Men and women will serve themselves separately. Within their respective genders, meals will always be served first to elders.

In smaller or more private settings, the whole family will gather in the living room with visitors. When first invited into a home, avoid bringing up politics until the host does. In Pakistani houses of the middle and upper classes, household employees play a significant role. As visiting someone in their home, be sure to tip the staff when you leave and express your appreciation for any meals they made.